Mopeds are convenient, affordable, and easy to ride. But when smaller vehicles share the road with larger, faster vehicles, there are risks.
Moped riders are more exposed and often not seen by other drivers, which can lead to serious accidents.
If you’ve been hurt in a moped accident, you probably have a lot of questions. How will I pay for medical bills? Can I get help for lost income? Who’s going to cover the damage? It’s a lot to deal with, especially when you are in pain and trying to recover from your injuries.
At David R. Price, Jr., P.A., we understand how difficult the time after a vehicle accident can be.
We help people who’ve been hurt in accidents get compensation. We understand how tough life can get after a crash, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
What Causes Moped Accidents in South Carolina?
Here are some of the most common causes of moped accidents in South Carolina:
Failure to Yield the Right of Way
Mopeds, like motorcycles, can be less visible to other drivers. This can lead to situations where drivers fail to yield the right of way to mopeds at intersections or while making turns.
Driver Inattention
Distracted driving is a significant issue on the roads, and it poses a particular threat to moped riders. Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted might not notice a moped until it’s too late.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
When drivers exceed speed limits or engage in aggressive driving behaviors, their ability to react to a moped in their vicinity decreases.
High speeds make it harder to stop or maneuver safely around smaller vehicles like mopeds.
Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and overall ability to drive safely. People driving under the influence pose a severe risk to moped riders.
Lack of Visibility
Mopeds are smaller and can be harder to spot, especially at night or in poor weather conditions. This can lead to accidents if other drivers do not notice them while changing lanes or turning.
Does South Carolina Have State-Specific Laws About Mopeds?
In 2018, South Carolina lawmakers updated how mopeds are defined and regulated. Mopeds are no longer considered bicycles; they are now officially recognized as a distinct class of motor vehicles under state law. As such, all mopeds operated on public roads in South Carolina must now be registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), and they must display a license plate.
Additionally, while riders under the age of 21 are required to wear helmets, those 21 and older are not legally obligated to do so. Wearing a helmet is still strongly recommended for safety, Riders must also carry a valid moped operator’s license or a regular driver’s license.
What Can You Recover After a Moped Crash?
The compensation you can seek covers various aspects of the losses and damages you’ve sustained due to the accident. Here are the common types of recoveries you might be entitled to:
Medical Expenses
This includes the cost of all medical treatment you’ve received due to the accident and can also cover future medical expenses if your injuries require ongoing care. This may encompass everything from emergency room visits, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any rehabilitative services.
Lost Wages
If your injuries forced you to take time away from work, you can recover compensation for the wages you lost during that period. If the injuries impact your ability to earn a similar income in the future, you may also claim for loss of earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
You can also recover compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve suffered because of the accident. Calculating pain and suffering can be complicated, as it involves both the immediate physical discomfort and the long-term impact on your quality of life.
Property Damage
If your moped or any personal property was damaged in the accident, you can recover compensation for repairs or the replacement value of the items.
How Long Does It Take to Recover Compensation After a Moped Accident?
The pace at which a moped accident case progresses depends on several key factors. One major factor is the cooperation of the insurance company. Unfortunately, some insurers may use a variety of tactics to stall or outright deny valid claims. In those situations, we will fight to hold the liable insurer accountable and ensure your rights are protected.
Another important factor is the availability and strength of evidence in a particular case.
Some cases require additional time to gather expert opinions and investigate the circumstances of the accident to ensure no detail is overlooked.
Finally, the pace of the injured person’s medical recovery plays a major role in determining when the injured person can pursue resolution. When our helps injured persons recover compensation, we aim to wait until they have reached maximum medical improvement (MMI) before trying to determine the value of their case. This way, we’ll have a clear understanding of a client’s long-term medical needs and can calculate the full extent of their healthcare costs.
How a Lawyer Can Help You After a Moped Accident
If your moped collision has left you with potentially serious injuries and significant financial impacts, here’s how a moped accident lawyer can help you.
Thorough Investigation of the Accident
Determining who is at fault in a moped accident requires a thorough investigation. Lawyers have the resources to gather evidence that supports your case, such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and police reports, and work with accident reconstruction experts to strengthen your case.
Medical Liaison and Documentation
Understanding the full extent of your injuries is crucial for claiming appropriate compensation. A lawyer can liaise with your medical providers to ensure that your injuries are documented accurately and comprehensively.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
A lawyer will handle all communications with insurers, advocating for your best interests. They know the tactics insurers might use to undervalue your claim and how to negotiate to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Representation in Court
If your case goes to trial, you will need an experienced lawyer. Your lawyer will represent you in court, present your case to a judge or jury, and argue on your behalf.
Contact Our Moped Accident Lawyer
Moped riding is convenient, but it does come with risks. Even if you follow all safety regulations, accidents can happen, often due to the negligence of others on the road.
At David R. Price, Jr., P.A., we help people in South Carolina who are injured moped accidents, and we understand what it takes to fight for what’s fair for our clients. We’ll listen to your story, explain your rights, and take the weight of the legal process off your shoulders.
Contact us at 864-271-2636 for a free consultation, where we can discuss your case and outline how we can help. We’re here to fight for your best outcome, not just a quick settlement. Your full physical and financial recovery is our top priority.